Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
1
VENDING MACHINE WITH INTERACTIVE DISPLAY
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] The present application is related to U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/168,872, filed April 13,
2009, entitled "VENDING MACHINE WITH INTERACTIVE DISPLAY".
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/168,872 is assigned to
the assignee of the present application and is hereby
incorporated by reference into the present application as if
fully set forth herein. The present application hereby claims
priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/168,872.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure is generally directed to consumer
product vending machines and, more particularly, to systems
and methods for controlling interfaces and displays in vending
machines.
BACKGROUND
[0003] A vending machine is a machine that provides various
snacks, beverages and other products to consumers by vending
products without a cashier. Items sold via vending machines
can vary by country and region. Vending machines typically
utilize a push button interface that is capable of accepting
money in paper, coin or credit/debit card form. For example,
a consumer may insert coins into a coin acceptor or dollar
bills into a bill validator, or a combination of the two.
Thereafter, the consumer typically makes a product selection
by entering a product identifying code into a keypad on the
face of the vending machine. If the amount of money
recognized by the machine equals or exceeds the amount of
money required to purchase the selected product, the machine
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
2
proceeds to vend the product to the consumer. However, if the
consumer has not entered enough money, or the machine does not
recognize the entry of enough money, no product will be vended
to the consumer.
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
3
SUMMARY
[0009] In one embodiment, a system includes a remote server
and a vending machine. The remote server is configured to
transfer media information via a communication link. The
media information includes media control information and media
content information, including an advertisement that relates
to at least one product available for vending from the vending
machine. The vending machine includes a product storage area,
an interactive display, and a controller. The product storage
area is configured to store products available for sale from
the vending machine. The interactive display is configured to
receive a user selection of a product to vend. The controller
is configured to receive the media information from the remote
server via the communication link. The controller is also
configured to display graphical information relating to the
advertisement using the interactive display, where the
graphical information is displayed according to the media
information. The controller is further configured to receive
a product selection signal from the interactive display, where
the product selection signal represents the user selection of
a product to vend. The controller is still further configured
to dispense a product from the product storage area according
to the product selection signal.
[0005] In another embodiment, a vending machine includes a
product storage area, an interactive display, and a
controller. The product storage area is configured to store
products available for sale from the vending machine. The
interactive display is configured to receive a user selection
of a product to vend. The controller is configured to receive
media information via a communication link. The media
information includes media control information and media
content information, including an advertisement relating to at
least one product available for vending from the vending
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
4
machine. The controller is also configured to display
graphical information relating to the advertisement using the
interactive display, where the graphical information is
displayed according to the media information. The controller
is further configured to receive a product selection signal
from the interactive display representing the user selection
of a product to vend. The controller is still further
configured to dispense a product from the product storage area
according to the product selection signal.
[0005] In still another embodiment, a method includes
transferring media information from a remote server to a
vending machine via a communication link. The media
information includes media control information and media
content information, including an advertisement relating to at
least one product available for vending from the vending
machine. The method also includes displaying graphical
information relating to the advertisement using an interactive
display of the vending machine, where the graphical
information is displayed according to the media information.
The method further includes receiving a product selection
signal from the interactive display, where the product
selection signal represents a user selection of a product to
vend. The method also includes dispensing a product from a
product storage area of the vending machine according to the
product selection signal.
[0007] Before undertaking the DETAILED DESCRIPTION below,
it may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain
words and phrases used throughout this patent document: the
terms "include" and "comprise," as well as derivatives
thereof, mean inclusion without limitation; the term "or," is
inclusive, meaning and/or; the phrases "associated with" and
"associated therewith," as well as derivatives thereof, may
mean to include, be included within, interconnect with,
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or
with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave,
juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a
property of, or the like; and the term "controller" means any
device, system or part thereof that controls at least one
operation, such a device may be implemented in hardware,
firmware or software, or some combination of at least two of
the same. It should be noted that the functionality
associated with any particular controller may be centralized
or distributed, whether locally or remotely. Definitions for
certain words and phrases are provided throughout this patent
document, those of ordinary skill in the art should understand
that in many, if not most instances, such definitions apply to
prior, as well as future uses of such defined words and
phrases.
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
6
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] For a more complete understanding of this disclosure
and its features, reference is now made to the following
description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0009] FIGURE 1 illustrates a simplified illustration of a
vending machine according to embodiments of the present
disclosure;
[0010] FIGURE 2 illustrates a simplified block diagram of a
vending machine controller according to embodiments of the
present disclosure;
[0011] FIGURE 3 illustrates an exemplary product delivery
bucket for a vending machine according to embodiments of the
present disclosure;
[0012] FIGURE 4 illustrates a monetary door according to
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0013] FIGURE 5 illustrates a monetary slide according to
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0014] FIGURE 6 is a schematic system diagram of a vending
machine network or system providing communications with and
control of one or more remotely located vending machines
according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0015] FIGURE 7 illustrates a simple block diagram of the
computer subsystem according to embodiments of the present
disclosure;
[0016] FIGURE 8 illustrates a simple block diagram of an
alternative embodiment providing an integrated vending machine
controller and computer subsystem according to embodiments of
the present disclosure; and
[0017] Figure 9 illustrates a simplified electronic vending
machine coin handling system according to one embodiment of
the present disclosure.
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
7
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] FIGURES 1 through 9, discussed below, and the
various embodiments used to describe the principles of the
present disclosure in this patent document are by way of
illustration only and should not be construed in any way to
limit the scope of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art
will understand that the principles of the present disclosure
may be implemented in any suitably arranged vending machine
system and network.
[0019] The present disclosure provides a system and method
providing an interactive display on a vending machine
transaction. This disclosure also provides a system and
method for providing, controlling, retrieving, storing,
modifying and updating product and advertising information for
display to a consumer through a vending machine user
interface, such as a large touch-screen display (input/output
device). This disclosure also provides a system and method
for receiving multiple forms of payment in vending machine
transactions, and collecting and transferring inventory
information and any other information related to the vending
machine or its operation, including information received from
user interactions. This disclosure also provides systems and
methods for transmitting and receiving (communicating) such
product and advertising information and other information to
and from device(s) located remotely and externally from the
vending machines, such as a number of vending machines within
a vending machine network.
[0020] FIGURE 1 illustrates a simplified illustration of a
vending machine 100 according to embodiments of the present
disclosure. The embodiment of the vending machine 100 shown
in FIGURE 1 is for illustration only and other embodiments
could be used without departing from the scope of this
disclosure.
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
8
[0021] The vending machine 100 includes a cabinet 105 and a
product storage area (not shown). The cabinet 105 includes a
top wall, bottom wall, right side wall, left side wall, back
wall, and front that collectively define a central cavity.
The vending machine 100 includes a main door 110 pivotally
connected to the cabinet 105, a product delivery door 115
pivotally connected to the cabinet 105 and a monetary door 120
on the front of the cabinet 105, as shown. The monetary door
120 may be pivotally connected to the cabinet or attached via
rail system such that the monetary door 120 slides from the
cabinet 105 to provide access to certain components within the
vending machine 100. The main door 110 includes a display 125
incorporated and mounted therein or thereon, and having touch-
screen or other user input capabilities.
[0022] One or more audio speakers 130 may be provided.
Other input/output devices may be provided and included at
various locations, as known to those skilled in the art. In
some embodiments the vending machine 100 includes a camera 135
positioned proximate (e.g., behind) to an opening 140 in the
monetary door 120. In some embodiments, a single lock 145 or
multiple locks are included or incorporated to secure the
monetary door 120, the main door 110, and/or the product
delivery door 115 in a closed position.
[0023] In a manner known in the art, a first pair of wheels
or casters 160 (or other support devices) is secured to a
front edge portion of bottom wall to facilitate the
positioning of vending machine 100. It will be understood
that a second pair of wheels (not shown) may also be arranged
on a rear portion of bottom wall.
[0024] The vending machine 100 includes a vending machine
controller (VMC) 150 and a computer and display subsystem 170.
[0025] The VMC 150 is configured to direct (e.g., control)
vending machine 100 functions during a vend operation or
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
9
sequence, and further to control one or more components of the
vending machine 100. The VMC 150 also can communicate with
vending machine operators both locally and remotely.
[0026] The vending machine 100 typically includes a number
of products for sale in a vending operation. The products are
stored in product storage trays (not shown) within the vending
machine product storage area. The product storage area is
provided to hold products until a vending operation is
requested and performed. Towards that end, storage area is
provided with a plurality of product storage trays such as,
but not limited to a plurality of vertically extending column
walls that, together with right and left side walls, form a
plurality of column or stack areas. In one embodiment, stack
areas constitute single stack columns. However, it should be
understood that the present disclosure also encompasses
vending machines having multi-stack columns. In some
embodiments, the product storage area may be refrigerated or
heated. The products may be stored in a stacked configuration
where one product is stacked upon another of the same product.
Additionally, the products may be stored in trays such that
one product is positioned in front of another of the same
product. Any suitable configuration and structure may be used
for the product storage area and vending mechanics, including
conventionally known apparatus and methods for the physical
vending of a selected product.
[0027] The door 110, coupled to the housing of the vending
machine 100 via a hinged joint 165, provides access to the
product storage trays. The hinged joint 165 is located on a
vertical edge of the door 110. The hinged joint 165 couples
the door 110 to a portion of a vertical front edge of the
cabinet 105. While the embodiment illustrated in FIGURE 1
includes multiple doors, other embodiments may include a
single door or additional doors. In the one embodiment shown,
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
the main door 110 enables access to the product storage area
(not shown) for stacking/re-stocking products to be vended.
The entire structure of the main door 110 is positioned above
the product delivery area (identified by 310).
[0028] FIGURE 2 illustrates a simplified block diagram of
the VMC 150 according to embodiments of the present
disclosure. The embodiment of the VMC controller 150 shown in
FIGURE 2 is for illustration only. Other embodiments of the
VMC 150 may be used without departing from the scope of this
disclosure.
[0029] One embodiment of the VMC 150 incorporated within
and utilized to operate and control the mechanical vend
operation of the vending machine 100 is shown in FIGURE 2.
The VMC 150 may be a computer, or any other device capable of
transmitting, processing, and/or receiving signals via
wireless and/or wireline communication links. In a typical
embodiment, the VMC 150 includes a central processing unit
("CPU") 252, a memory unit 254, one or more input/output
("I/O") devices 256, and a network interface 258. The network
interface may be, for example, one or more network interface
cards (NICs) that are each associated with a media access
control (MAC) address. The components 252, 254, 256, and 258
are interconnected by one or more communication links 260
(e.g., a bus). It is understood that the VMC 150 may be
differently configured and that each of the listed components
may actually represent several different components. For
example, the CPU 252 may actually represent a multi-processor
or a distributed processing system; the memory unit 254 may
include different levels of cache memory, main memory, hard
disks, and remote storage locations; and the I/O device 256
may include monitors, keyboards, and the like. Alternatively,
single components may be utilized for two or more of the
components illustrated. The network interface 258 enables the
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
11
VMC 150 to connect to a network, such as a wireline or
wireless network as shown in FIGURE 6.
[0030] Memory unit 254 includes programming instructions
adapted to be utilized by the CPU 252 to direct the components
of the vending machine 100 through vending operations, local
and remote communications with operating personnel and display
operations. Memory unit 254 is further adapted to store
inputs received from the interactive display 125 for
illustrations, such as, but not limited to a product selected
via the interactive display 125.
[0031] The VMC 150 operates one or more product dispensing
motors in the vending machine 100. The product dispensing
motor can operate a slide mechanism to allow a first product
to be released from the product storage tray and deposited
within a product delivery bucket (discussed in further detail
herein below) coupled to the product delivery door 115.
Alternatively, the product dispensing motor can operate a
helical coil that moves a product forward in the product
storage tray such that the product is released from the
product storage tray and deposited in the product delivery
bucket. Alternatively, the product dispensing motor can
operate a product capture device on a robotic arm. The
product capture device slides along the robotic arm as the
robotic arm moves the product capture device to a selected
product. The product capture device removes the selected
product from the product delivery tray. Thereafter, the
product capture device slides along the robotic arm as the
robotic arm moves the product capture device towards the
product delivery bucket. Then, the product capture device
places the selected product in the product delivery bucket for
eventual access by the customer.
[0032] FIGURE 3 illustrates an exemplary product delivery
bucket for a vending machine according to embodiments of the
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
12
present disclosure. The embodiment of the product delivery
bucket 300 shown in FIGURE 3 is for illustration only and
other embodiments could be used without departing from the
scope of this disclosure.
[0033] The vending machine 100 includes the product
delivery door 115. The product delivery door 115 is coupled
to the cabinet 105 of the vending machine 100 via a hinged
joint 305. The hinged joint 305 is located on the bottom of
front edge of the product delivery door 115. In some
embodiments, the hinge joint 305 is located on a vertical side
of the cabinet 105.
[0034] The vending machine 100 includes a product delivery
bucket 300. The product delivery bucket 300 is located
beneath the lowermost product storage trays. The product
delivery bucket 300 is accessible by rotating the product
delivery door 115 about the hinged joint 305. Products
deposited within the product delivery bucket 300 are
accessible via an access door 310. The access door 310 is
located on a front surface of the product delivery door 115.
As will be appreciated, other configurations and structures
may be utilized for delivering the selected product from the
storage area to an access area for customer retrieval of the
vended product.
[0035] FIGURE 4 illustrates a monetary door according to
embodiments of the present disclosure. The embodiment of the
monetary door 120 shown in FIGURE 4 is for illustration only.
Other embodiments of the monetary door 120 could be used
without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
[0036] The monetary door 120 provides access to components
within the vending machine 100. The monetary door 120
provides access to the VMC 150, a vending machine power supply
405 and a cabinet fan 410. In some embodiments, the monetary
door includes the camera 135 positioned to capture images
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
13
through the glass opening 140. In such embodiments, the
monetary door 120 also provides access to a camera controller
415.
[0037] In some embodiments, illustrated in FIGURE 5, the
monetary door 120 is the face of a monetary slide 500, also
referred to as a control carriage, configured to hold one or
more of the components and controllers for use in the vending
machine 100. The monetary slide 500 is attached to vending
machine 100 cabinet 105 via a glide assembly 505. The glide
assembly 505 enables the monetary slide 500 to slide forward,
outward from the cabinet 105. Sliding the monetary slide 500
provides access to internal components of the vending machine
100, money collected by the vending machine 100, and a product
delivery door latching mechanism (not specifically shown).
[0038] The product delivery door latching mechanism is an
interlock that secures the product delivery door 115 in an
upright, i.e., dispensing position. In order to open the
product delivery door 115, an operator must first slide the
monetary slide 500 forward, and operate the product delivery
door latching mechanism to tilt the product delivery door 115
downward.
[0039] Referring back to FIGURE 1, the vending machine 100
includes the display 125 having interactive capabilities and
functionality. The interactive display 125 may be any
suitable size (and may include multiple individual displays
operating individually or integrated together), type and
structure. Various conventional and commercially available
displays may be utilized, provided the display portion (or the
display unit) includes user interface capabilities. For
example, the display 125 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD)
or plasma display having user interface or input capabilities.
In one specific embodiment, the display may be a 42" or 46"
diagonal LCD (and may be positioned in any suitable
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
14
orientation). It will be understood that illustration of the
display as 42" or 46" is exemplary and many other diagonal (or
height and length) sizes may be used without departing from
the scope of this disclosure.
[0040] In some embodiments, the interactive display 125 is
a touch screen having touch-screen capabilities. Therefore,
the interactive display 125 is capable of receiving inputs
from a user (e.g., customer) via the user touching one or more
areas within the interactive display 125. In such
embodiments, the vending machine 100 does not include a keypad
for product selection. Instead, the interactive display 125
provides a keypad, graphic images and/or other icons or
symbols enabling a customer to select a product or service
from the vending machine 100, or otherwise enable users to
interact with the vending machine 100 (such as for
programming, maintenance, etc.).
[0041] The interactive display 125 is communicatively
coupled to the computer subsystem 170 via a display controller
175. As will be appreciated, the computer and display
controller subsystem 170 is, in one embodiment, a computer
with a special or general-purpose processor and one or more
controllers and supporting components. The computer and
display subsystem 170 functions to control operation of the
display 125 (via the display controller 175 which also
controls operation of the interactive display 125). It will
be appreciated that the display controller 175 may be a
separate component or integrated with the computer subsystem
170. In addition, the speakers 130 are controlled by the
computer subsystem 170, the display controller 175, an audio
controller (not shown) or combination thereof. The display
controller 175 includes functionality necessary to control
processing and adjustment of images displayed on the
interactive display 125.
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
[0042] In embodiments wherein the interactive display 125
is a touch screen, the interactive display 125 further is
coupled to a touch screen controller 180 for receiving inputs
from a user via the touch screen of the display 125. The touch
screen controller 180 may be a separate component or
integrated with the computer subsystem 170.
[0043] Though not shown, the vending machine 100 may
include a microphone for receiving audible commands or input
from a user positioned near the vending machine 100. In such
manner, a user may input audible responses or commands which
are converted and interpreted into a proper format to initiate
a vending operation or for other purposes. For example, a
visual or audible prompt or menu may be provided by the
vending machine 100 to a user, the user may respond audibly
(or via the touch screen), such as for selecting a product to
vend, and the vending machine 100 may either vend the product
or provide an additional prompt or menu to the user (e.g.,
visual representation of product audibly selected with request
to confirm selected), and receive further user input (e.g., to
confirm the selected product) and initiate the vend or other
operation. In this configuration, the vending machine will
include a speech recognition component that receives speech,
converts the speech to another format which is utilized by the
computer subsystem 170 or VMC 150 for processing and
controlling the vending machine 100.
[0044] In some embodiments the vending machine 100 includes
a number of customer account identification circuits (not
shown). For example, the vending machine 100 includes a
sensor adapted to read or sense a fingerprint, an eye scanner
adapted to read a retinal image of the customer.
[0045] Power is provided to the interactive display 125
(and other components) via a main power supply and controller
185. Additionally, the main door 110 includes a door fan 190
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
16
for removing heat from the interactive display 125. As will
be appreciated, during operation the interactive display 125
may generate a substantial amount of heat in within the
cabinet 105 (particularly in the front near the display 125).
This heat can be detrimental to the interactive display 125,
other components in the vending machine 100, such as, but not
limited the VMC 150 and the computer subsystem, as well as the
products in the product storage trays. The door fan 190 and
the cabinet fan 410 work singularly and in combination to
remove heat from the interactive display 125. The door fan
190 and the cabinet fan 410 remove the heat towards an
exterior portion of the cabinet 105.
[0046] In other embodiments, the VMC 150 or other
controller may control a brightness of the interactive display
125 to reduce heat produced by the display. That is, the
brightness of the interactive display 125 may be reduced in
high ambient temperatures or when heat build up in the
vicinity of the interactive display 125 is detected, in order
to reduce heat produced by the display.
[0047] The computer subsystem 170 communicates with the VMC
150. The computer subsystem 170, in conjunction with the LCD
display controller 175, controls the interactive display 125
using information stored in a memory (not shown) and
information received via the VMC 150 to control images
displayed in the interactive display 125 and to control sound
broadcast via the speakers 130.
[0048] The interactive display 125 (and speakers) includes
functionality providing a user interface for receiving and/or
outputting information to a user (e.g., visual, audible,
touch). This user interface provides a customer with the
ability to select a product or service for a vend operation or
otherwise interact with the vending machine to receive
information or input information) . For example, the user
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
17
interface may visually display a number of images (static,
dynamic) on the display 125 representative of products in the
product storage area and available for selection and purchase.
The customer selects a product by touching an image (or a
specific location associated with the image) representing the
desired product. This information (e.g., positional
information of where the display was touched) is transmitted
to the computer subsystem 170, which in turn, transmits
information to the VMC 150 for performing a vend operation.
Thereafter,. the VMC 150 commences to operate the respective
product dispensing motors and devices to vend the selected
product.
[0049] FIGURE 6 is a schematic system diagram of a vending
machine system communication network 600 according to
embodiments of the present disclosure. The vending machine
communication network 600 shown in FIGURE 6 is for
illustration only and other embodiments and configurations
could be used without departing from the scope of this
disclosure.
[0050] The system 600 includes multiple vending machine
605, 610 and 615 shown in FIGURE 6. These machines may
include the same or similar structure and functionality
described with respect to vending machine 100. Further, one
or more of the vending machines may be a vending machine that
does not include an interactive display.
[0051] In general, the vending machines 605, 610 and 615
communicate with one or more remote devices for various
purposes. These remote devices may include one or more remote
servers or other networked devices, vending machines, and/or
portable/mobile network devices (such as a hand-held device).
[0052] Vending machines 605, 610 and 615 according to one
embodiment of the present disclosure communicate with each
other wirelessly (or by wireline). In one embodiment, the
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
18
vending machines 605, 610 and 615 are located adjacent each
other and one of the machines includes the interactive display
125. For example, vending machine 605 includes the
interactive display 125 and a coin/currency acceptor and/or
dispenser mechanisms. A customer may select a product located
in the vending machine 610 by touching a point or area on the
interactive display 125 (on machine 605) that is associated
with the displayed image representing a product located within
the machine 610. In response machine 605 transmits a wireless
message to the machine 610 causing the machine 610 to dispense
the selected product. As will be appreciated, one or more of
the machines 605, 610 and 615 may have a product delivery
sensing system, and where the machine 610 has a product
delivery sensing system, the machine 610 may transmit a
wireless message to the machine 605 indicating whether or not
the selected product was successfully vended. If not, the
machine 605 may offer the opportunity to select another
product or return the customer's money. It will be understood
the communication between machines 605, 610, 615 may be
through a wirelink, or combination of wireless and wirelink.
[0053] The vending machines 605, 610 and 615 may exchange
setup information via messages (wireless or wireline) . Such
setup information may include numbers of shelves, numbers of
product queues on each shelf, numbers of products in each
queue, product price for each product queue, or other
information. In an embodiment where only one machine has a
user interface, such setup information may enable that machine
to provide, in the interactive display 125, menu and selection
choices for products in the other machines.
[0054] In some embodiments, one of the vending machines
controls displays on one or more of the other vending
machines. For example, the computer subsystem 170 in vending
machine 605 can control the displays 125 on vending machines
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
19
610 and 615. Therefore, the computer subsystem 170 in vending
machine 605 can coordinate the displays 125 on vending
machines 610 and 615. Additionally, the computer subsystem
170 in vending machine 605 can couple the display 125 on
vending machine 605 with the displays 125 on vending machines
610 and 615 to display unified media content such that the
displays form a video wall. It will be appreciated that
although three vending machines are shown, the video wall and
coordinated displays can include any number of displays and
vending machines.
[0055] The machines 605, 610 and 615 may exchange
operational status information (wireless or wireline) . Such
operational status information may include current inventory
in each product queue, cumulative count of number of
activations of a product queue dispenser, time since last
servicing call, required maintenance, detected electronic or
mechanical failures, or other information. Additional
description of various methods involving communications
between vending machines 605, 610, 215 in a system such as the
system 600, may be found in United States Patent Application
Serial No. 12/380,952, filed on March 5, 2009; and may be
found in United States Patent Application Serial No.
12/380,924, filed on March 5, 2009, which are incorporated
herein by reference. Further, various additional methods
described in United States Patent No. 6,457,038 filed on March
12, 1999; United States Patent No. 6,925,335 filed on July 5,
2001; United States Patent No. 7,010,594 filed on May 22,
2001. United States Patent No. 7,013,337 filed on May 11,
2001; United States Patent No. 7,020,680 filed on August 6,
2001; United States Patent No. 7,139,616 filed on May 2, 2005;
United States Patent No. 7,164,884 filed on June 6, 2001;
United States Patent No. 7,167,892 filed on November 26, 2003;
United States Patent No. 7,171,451 filed on July 30, 2002;
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
United States Patent No. 7,181,501 filed on October 4, 2001,
which are incorporated herein by reference, may be integrated
or utilized wholly or partially in the system 600 and its
alternative embodiments.
[0056] Devices other than vending machines may additionally
or alternatively communicate wirelessly with one or more of
the vending machines 605, 610 and 615. For example, a
portable computer or other hand-held device 620 communicates
wirelessly with the machine 605. The portable device 620 can
be a handheld device configured to be used by a technician to
communicate setup information with the vending machines 605,
610 and/or 615 when installed, reconfigured or restocked, or
to communicate operational status information. A technician
in a service van 625 communicates wirelessly with the machine
605 from outside the building where the machine is located to
determine whether service on one or more of the machines 605,
610 and 615 is required and, if so, what kind of service.
[0057] In one embodiment, the portable device 620 is
configured to control operation of the interactive display 125
on the vending machine 605, and may transmit (download) media
information or files to the vending machine 605. The portable
device 620 may also receive media metrics, operational status
information and setup information from the vending machine
605.
[0058] Where the facility in which the vending machines
605, 610 and 615 are located has a wireless access point 630,
the machine 605 may communicate wirelessly through the access
point 630 to a device 635 coupled to the access point 630 via
a network 640 (e.g., Internet or another communication
network). The device 635 may be a remotely located central
server or other controller for an operator of a number of such
vending machines. For example, the device 635 can be a
regional office that operates a number of vending machines 100
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
21
within proximity to the device. Through the use of a device
635, the operator may achieve a benefit such as avoiding the
cost of sending a technician to the location of the vending
machines 605, 610 and 615 to obtain operational status
information. Additionally, the operator can perform a mass or
selective update of product pricing information, software
updates, media information (such as, but not limited to,
advertising information, promotional information, media
control information, and audio and video content) or a
combination of these, to the vending machines within the
system 600.
[0059] In some embodiments, the device 635 is located at a
remote operating center (discussed in further detail herein
below) and one or more of the portable devices 620 operate as
regional offices. For example, each portable device 620
(e.g., handheld device) is located at a specified location
(such as, but not limited to, a shopping mall office) . The
portable device 620 communicates with vending machines 605,
610, 615 located within one-thousand feet (1000'). It will be
understood that one-thousand feet merely is for example
purposes and ranges that are higher or lower could be used
without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The
portable device 620 acts as a regional office while the device
635 operates from the remote operating center.
[0060] In some embodiments, the vending machine 605 is
capable of cellular communication. In such embodiments, a
personal digital assistant 645 (PDA) or other cellular-capable
device may `call' the machine 605 at its cellular phone number
to establish wireless communication via a base station 650 in
order to send setup information or receive operational status
information. Similarly, the base station 650 may be coupled
to the network 640, allowing the device 635 to communicate
with the vending machine 605 via the base station 650.
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
22
[0061] The wireless communication between the vending
machine 605 and any one or more of the portable device 620 the
wireless access point 630, and the vehicle 625 may use the
IEEE 802.11 standard (referred to as a "WiFi standard"), the
IEEE 802.16 standard (referred to as a "WiMAX standard"), or
any other suitable wireless communications interface standard.
The machines 605, 610 and 615 may form a wireless ad hoc
network or other mesh network. In other embodiments,
communication between the vending machine 605 and the base
station 650 may be conducted under a standard other than a
cellular wireless standard.
[0062] While only the vending machine 605 is shown
communicating wirelessly with the portable device 620 the
wireless access point 630, and/or the vehicle 625, it will be
understood that any or all of the machines 605, 610 and 615
may be configured and operate to engage in such
communications. In embodiments where setup and/or operational
status information are located in the vending machine 605,
another vending machine, such as vending machine 615, may
provide wireless communication to an external device, such as
the portable device 620. In such an embodiment, status
information is wirelessly communicated from the vending
machine 605 to the vending machine 615 and then wirelessly
communicated to the portable device 620. Similarly, setup
commands and information are wirelessly communicated from the
portable device 620 to the vending machine 615 and then
wirelessly communicated to the vending machine 605.
[0063] In other embodiments, communications among the
vending machines and/or between the vending machine 605 and
the device 635 may be via wireline, or combination of wireline
and wireless. Further, communications among the machines 605,
610 and 615 and/or to the portable device 620 may be through a
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
23
limited range connection, such as BlueTooth , and may utilize
infrared or other wireless methods.
[0064] In some embodiments, the operator may purchase
product inventory to stock in the vending machines. In other
embodiments, an operator may purchase and install machines
that a manufacturer or other entity uses for consignment
sales. Where such consignment products have a high price,
cash sales may be impractical and the vending machine may be
equipped with a card reader to scan credit or debit cards, or
an identification card (or other issued card), such as an
employee identification card or student identification card in
a closed cash system, to fund the transaction. In such
embodiments, the vending machine utilizes wired or wireless
communication to communicate with a transaction network,
independent sales organization, acquiring bank, or other
transaction authorizing entity to receive authorization for
the transaction.
[0065] The vending machine 100 includes a connection to the
internet or other data network via a hard-wire Ethernet
connection, WiF1 connection, or other wireless/cellular
connection. The connection to the internet is used for
collecting sales, machine health and other data. The internet
connection also provides for the vending machine to receive
media metrics or files that include, but are not limited to, a
selection of what advertisements, messages, or images are to
be displayed, as well as the content thereof configured in any
suitable file (see below). Additionally, the vending machine
can feedback, via the internet connection, media metrics that
include, but are not limited to, what advertisements have been
displayed, operational status information, setup information
and any other information capable of being collected or
generated by the vending machine, including product inventory
and money collected. Further, an operator can download media
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
24
content, such as, but not limited to, messages, images,
advertisements (relating to products available for vending
from the vending machine 100, as well as other topics),
specials, combination vending information, product nutritional
information, environmental information (e.g., weather)and time
dependent information (e.g., duration advertisements or
weather announcements), to the vending machine 100.
[0066] In some embodiments, the computer subsystem 170
communicates via the internet or data network to send
information to and receive this information from the
operator/technician (e.g., via portable device 620, vehicle
625, device 635 or PDA 645), and further operates to collect
the information for sending to the remote location. In other
embodiments, the VMC 150 performs one or more of these
functions. In yet another embodiment, the VMC 150 performs
one or more of these functions under the control of the
computer subsystem 170. In other embodiments, the VMC 150
collects the information related to vending information and
forwards it to the computer subsystem 170 for transmission.
This may be accomplished by the VMC 150 periodically sending
such information to the computer subsystem 170 or upon the
request (i.e., interrogation request) or command of the
computer subsystem 170.
[0067] In one example, the computer subsystem 170 forwards
the media information (such as media content) to the display
controller 175. When received from the operator, the computer
subsystem 170 stores the information in memory (discussed in
further detail herein below with respect to FIGURES 7 and S.)
and determines whether or not the information is related to
(e.g., for use by, or display) the interactive display 125 or
related to vending operations. If related to the interactive
display 125, the computer subsystem 170 controls and forwards
information to the display controller 175. The media content
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
is then displayed on the interactive display. The touch-
screen controller 180 also sends to the computer subsystem 170
(and then forwarded to the VMC 150 for further processing)
user input information, including information relating to any
product or service selections made by a customer.
[0068] When the computer subsystem 170 receives information
from the VMC 150, the computer subsystem 170 determines
whether the information is content to be displayed, display
control content (e.g., information instructing the computer
subsystem 170 how or when to display the content on the
interactive display 125), or configuration content (e.g.,
operating parameters for the computer subsystem 170 and the
display controller 175 such as, but not limited to, operating
software upgrades). The computer subsystem 170 stores the
information in memory. In some embodiments the memory is
included within the computer subsystem 170. In additional and
alternative embodiments, the memory is external to the
computer subsystem 170. Thereafter, the computer subsystem
170 causes the interactive display 125 to display content
based on the display content information.
[0069] The computer subsystem 170 can cause the
interactive display 125 to run a full screen advertisement
when not conducting a vend operation or during one or more
predetermined time periods. Such an advertisement may relate
to products available for vending from the vending machine 100
or to other topics. Additionally, the computer subsystem 170
can cause the interactive display 125 to display a banner
during a vend operation and/or display a special promotion
when a particular product is selected. The computer subsystem
170 can cause the interactive display 125 to provide a virtual
display of products (for example, but not limited to, a
graphical representation of products) contained in the vending
machine 100. The virtual display may also be one or more
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
26
representations of the available products on shelves that the
user can select by touching a desired product. The display of
products can match the internal configuration of the vending
machine 100. Additionally, the virtual display can display
products in a different order or in a manner to promote them
(or otherwise emphasize them) in a way that is not linked to
how products are actually stored inside the machine. For
example, the virtual display can vary the size or location of
one or more products that is being promoted. In an additional
example, the virtual display can animate one or more of the
products that is being promoted. Further, the computer
subsystem 170 can cause the interactive display 125 to display
the virtual display in response to a user touching the screen
or providing a form of payment (discussed herein below). Upon
user input, the virtual display may be enlarged or shrunk
(such as when the customer selects a product, that image can
be enlarged) and the user may be prompted to confirm his/her
selection. The computer subsystem 170 can cause the
interactive display 125 to display news and weather
information and broadcasts. The computer subsystem 170 can
cause the interactive display 125 to display advertisements,
graphics, sounds or a combination of these to attract a
customer to the vending machine 100.
[0070] FIGURE 7 illustrates a block diagram of the computer
subsystem 170 according to one or more embodiments of the
present disclosure. The embodiment of the computer subsystem
170 shown in FIGURE 7 is for illustration only and other
embodiments could be used without departing from the scope of
this disclosure.
[0071] The computer subsystem 170 is computer system
configured to control the functions of the interactive display
125; communicate via the Internet and a handheld device 735;
communicate with a vending management system; communicate with
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
27
a reporting portal (e.g., web-based portal); and communicate
with a master products portal at remote operating center 740.
The computer subsystem 170 is coupled to the VMC 150 via a
communications bus. The bus may be serial or parallel. An
application programming interface (API) 705 (with a portion
705a resident in the computer subsystem and a portion 706a
resident in the VMC 150) translates commands and data
communicated between the two devices. In some embodiments,
the API 705 is a windows Dynamic Link Language (DLL) that
allows programs running within the computer subsystem 170 to
control the vending machine through the VMC 150. In one
embodiment, the computer subsystem 170 includes, and operates
in accordance with, a high level operating system, such as
Windows embedded XP. The computer subsystem 170 includes one
or more Streamware (SW) modules 710. The SW modules 710
include a watchdog module 715 and a communication module 720.
The watchdog module 715 monitors all vending machine
functions, media and sales. The watchdog reports results of
the monitored systems and events to the communication module
720. The communication module 720 is a medium-independent
communications module that can transfer data through a
handheld device 735, Internet 730 connection or cellular
network. The communications module 720 determines the best
and most economical way to send information based on the
connection type and costs. The communications module 720
makes determinations based at least in part on the time value
of the data sent both ways and the size of the data. The
communications module 720 optimizes the total cost of the
communications to and from the vending machine 100. The
communication module 720 enables communication between a file
exchange manager 725 and the APT 705.
[0072] In some embodiments, the communication module 720
also provides the computer subsystem 170 with a communication
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
28
via the internet 730. In such embodiments, the computer
subsystem 170 communicates via the internet to send
information to and receive information from the
operator/technician (e.g., via portable device 620, vehicle
625, device 635 or PDA 645). For example, the computer
subsystem 170 can forward vending machine health and
operational status information (such as, but not limited to,
product inventory) from the VMC 150. When the computer
subsystem 170 receives machine health and operational status
information from the VMC 150 and forwards to the operator via
a handheld computer 735, a vehicle connection (described in
further detail herein above with respect to FIGURE 6).
Thereafter, the operator can forward the information to the
remote operating center 740. Additionally, and alternatively,
the computer subsystem 170 can forward the machine health and
status information via the internet 730 to the remote
operating center 740.
[0073] The file exchange manager 725 manages files
exchanged between the VMC 150 and the computer subsystem 170.
As such, the file exchange manager 725 manages the transfer of
data between processes running on the computer subsystem 170
to the handheld 735 and remote operating center 740.
Additionally, the file exchange manager 725 manages files
exchanged between the remote operating center 740 and the
computer subsystem 170.
[0074] The handheld device 735 is a mobile handheld
computer or memory storage device (such as, but not limited to
a non-volatile memory device). The handheld device 735 is
carried by a technician. The handheld device 735 collects
data from the vending machine 100 (e.g., via the computer
subsystem 170). The handheld device 735 also sends data to
the vending machine 100. The handheld device 735 can send and
receive data to the vending machine 100 using a wireless or
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
29
wireline connection. When using a wireless transfer medium,
such as WiFi, the handheld device 735 can send and receive
files to the vending machine 100 when the handheld device 735
is within a proximity of the vending machine 100. For
example, the handheld device 735 can communicate with the
vending machine 100 when the handheld device 100 is located
within a one-thousand foot (1000') radius of the vending
machine 100. The handheld device 735 provides a mechanism for
advertisers, via a technician, to upload new content and have
the new content displayed in the interactive display 125 on
the machine 100. The handheld device 735 provides a mechanism
for suppliers, via a technician, to authorize their products
to be vended in the vending machine 100.
[0075] The remote operating center 740 is a central or
remote facility that provides reporting to the end consumer,
vending operator, product suppliers, and any advertisers. The
reporting includes data for the vending consumer, data for the
vending operator or bottler, data for the product supplier
that may sell products in the vending machine 100, data about
advertising and metrics regarding what advertisements were
displayed. The remote operating center 740 provides a
mechanism for advertisers to upload new content and have the
new content displayed in the interactive display 125 on the
machine 100. The remote operating center 740 provides a
mechanism for suppliers to authorize their products to be
vended in the vending machine 100.
[0076] The computer subsystem 170 includes a central
processing unit (CPU) 745 and a memory unit 750. The memory
unit 750 may include different levels of cache memory, main
memory, hard disks, Secure Digital (SD) cards (such as non-
volatile removable flash drives) and remote storage locations.
The memory unit 750 includes programming instructions adapted
to be utilized by the CPU 745 to direct the interactive
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
display 125 and speakers 130, manage local and remote
communications with operating personnel. The CPU 745 and
memory unit 750 further are adapted to store inputs received
from the interactive display 125 for illustrations, such as,
but not limited to a product selected via the interactive
display 125.
[0077] In some embodiments, the computer subsystem 170 is
capable of receiving and processing streaming media
information. In such embodiments, the computer subsystem 170
controls the interactive display 125 to display the streaming
media information at substantially the same time as it is
received by the vending machine 100 or the interactive display
125 can display the streaming media information at a time
subsequent to when the streaming media information is received
by the vending machine 100.
[0078] FIGURE 8 illustrates a block diagram of an
alternative embodiment of a VMC 800 in which the functions and
operations of the computer subsystem 170 and VMC 150 are
integrated together into the VMC 800 according to embodiments
of the present disclosure. This embodiment of the combination
VMC 800 shown in FIGURE 8 is for illustration only and other
embodiments could be used without departing from the scope of
this disclosure.
[0079] The VMC 800 is computer system configured to perform
the functions of the VMC 150 and the computer subsystem 170.
The VMC 800 is coupled to the vending components of the
vending machine (not shown) such as, but not limited, the
dispensing motors, monetary input elements (such as, but not
limited to, bill validator, coin acceptor, credit card
validator, card reader) and change return mechanism. The VMC
800 includes a number of Streamware (SW) modules 810. The SW
modules 810 include a watchdog module 815 and a communication
module 820. The watchdog module 815 monitors all vending
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
31
machine functions, media and sales. The watchdog reports
results of the monitored systems and events to the
communication module 820. The communication module 820 is a
medium independent communications module that can transfer
data through a handheld device 835, Internet 830 connection or
cellular network. The communications module 820 determines
the best and most economical way to send information based on
the connection type and costs. The communications module 820
makes determinations based at least in part on the time value
of the data sent both ways and the size of the data. The
communications module 820 optimizes the total cost of the
communications to and from the vending machine 100.
[0080] The communication module 820 provides the VMC 800
with a communication via the internet 830. In such
embodiments, the VMC 800 communicates via the internet 830 to
send information to and receive information from the
operator/technician (e.g., via portable device 620, vehicle
625, device 635 or PDA 645) For example, the VMC 800 can
send vending machine health information, operational status
information (such as, but not limited to, product inventory)
and media metrics to the operator via a handheld computer 735
(e.g., via portable device 620 or PDA 645) or a vehicle
connection (described in further detail herein above with
respect to FIGURE 6) Thereafter, the operator can forward
the information to the remote operating center 840.
Additionally, and alternatively, the VMC 800 can forward the
machine health and operational status information via the
internet 830 to the remote operating center 840.
[0081] The VMC 800 includes a CPU 845 and memory unit 850.
The memory unit 850 may include different levels of cache
memory, main memory, hard disks, and remote storage locations.
The memory unit 850 includes programming instructions adapted
to be utilized by the CPU 845 to direct components of the
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
32
vending machine 100 through vending operations, direct the
interactive display 125 and speakers 130, and manage local and
remote communications with operating personnel. CPU 845 and
memory unit 850 further are adapted to store inputs received
from the interactive display 125 for illustrations, such as,
but not limited to a product selected via the interactive
display 125.
[0082] In some embodiments, the VMC 800 is capable of
receiving and processing streaming media information. In such
embodiments, the VMC 800 controls the interactive display 125
to display the streaming media information at substantially
the same time as it is received by the vending machine 100 or
the interactive display 125 can display the streaming media
information at a time subsequent to when the streaming media
information is received by the vending machine 100.
[0083] Figure 9 illustrates a simplified electronic vending
machine coin handling system 900 according to one embodiment
of the present disclosure. The embodiment of the coin
handling system 900 shown in FIGURE 9 is for illustration
only. Other embodiments of the coin handling system 900 could
be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
[0084] The coin handling system 900 is disposed within the
monetary door 120. In one embodiment, the coin handling
system 900 is accessible for maintenance by sliding the
monetary slide 500 forward via rails attached to the cabinet
105.
[0085] The coin handling system 900 includes a coin
receiving and dispensing mechanism 902 as is known in the art.
A coin return actuator of the coin receiving and dispensing
mechanism 902 is coupled to a coin return motor 904. The coin
return motor 904 also is coupled to the VMC 150. The coin
return motor 904 may be an electronically controlled actuator.
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
33
[0086] When a customer touches a coin return icon on the
interactive display 125, the VMC 150, 800 sends a signal to
activate the coin return motor 904. Activation of the coin
return motor 904 rotates a cam, which presses the coin return
actuator of the coin mechanism 902 causing any coins contained
within a receiving tray of the coin receiving and dispensing
mechanism 902 to be released via a path coupled to the coin
return tray.
[0087] The vending machine 100 is capable of receiving
multiple forms of payment from a customer. For example, when
purchasing a product or service, the customer can insert paper
currency into a bill validator/dispenser, insert coin currency
into a coin acceptor/dispenser, insert a credit card into a
credit card validator (or slide the magnetic strip of the
credit card across a magnetic strip reader), hold a service
card proximate to a card reader, enter a customer
identification number, and/or provide identification via a
biometric sensor such as a fingerprint scanner, palm scanner,
and/or a retinal scanner.
[0088] The service card can be an identification (ID) card
issued by the customer school or issued by another business
associated with the vending machine 100. Either one or both
of the service card and customer identification number can be
associated with a financial account at a transaction
authorizing entity.
[0089] The financial account can be held at a bank or other
transaction authorizing entity wherein, upon reading the
service card or upon the customer entering the customer
identification number, or both, the vending machine 100
accesses the account via the internet, or other communication
connection, to withdraw funds corresponding to an amount of a
product or service selected by the customer (a payment amount)
or otherwise receive authorization for the transaction. In
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
34
some embodiments, a password or personal identification number
must be entered as well.
[0090] Additionally and alternatively, the financial
account may be held with a school, business or other
transaction authorizing entity associated with the vending
machine 100 such that, upon reading the service card or upon
the customer entering the customer identification number, or
both, the vending machine 100 accesses the school or business
via the internet, or other communication connection, to
withdraw funds or submit a bill for future payment
corresponding to the payment amount of a product or service
selected by the customer, or otherwise receive authorization
for the transaction. In such example, the school or business
may later send the customer a bill for items purchased via one
or more vending machines 100 during a specified duration of
time.
[0091] The vending machine 100 can be configured to accept
and dispense multiple types of currency (e.g., currency from
different countries) For example, the vending machine 100
may be located in an area where multiple types of currency are
used, such as near a border between two countries. In such an
example, the VMC 150, 800 receives currency exchange rate data
via the internet connection or other communication link. When
the customer inserts currency that is of a different type than
the type in which process are displayed by the vending machine
100 (for example, but not limited to, if a pound (E) note or
coin is inserted in a machine displaying its prices in dollars
($)), the VMC 150, 800 computes the price for the selected
product based on the current exchange rate. In some
embodiments, the VMC 150, 800 instructs the computer subsystem
170 to display the price in pounds if a pound note or coin is
inserted. In some embodiments, the vending machine 100
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
displays the price of each product in the vending machine in
two or more different currency types.
[0092] The vending machine 100 is capable of vending
multiple products and services. The vending machine 100 can
provide icons on the interactive display 125 to enable a
customer to execute one or more of these functions.
[0093] For example, the vending machine 100 can perform a
cash recycling service. A customer initiates a cash recycling
transaction by touching the cash recycling icon in the
interactive display 125. It should be noted that the cash
recycling icon may actually be an icon associated with cash
recycling but not stating cash recycling. For example, the
interactive display 125 may display a deposit icon or an icon
with a dollar sign ($) . The vending machine 100 provides a
list of financial institutions or other payment recipients on
the interactive display 125. The customer selects the
financial institution where the account to which the customer
wishes to make a deposit is located. Then, the vending
machine 100 prompts the customer to enter the account number.
The vending machine 100 provides a keypad on the interactive
display 125 to allow the customer to enter the account number.
The customer enters the account number and then deposits
currency into the bill validator, the coin acceptor or both.
The vending machine 100 counts-the amount of currency inserted
by the customer (a payment amount) and communicates with the
selected bank to credit the inserted amount to the customers
account. Thereafter, the vending machine 100 uses the
inserted currency in future transactions either as change for
vending operations for cash withdrawal requests made by a
customer.
[0094] Additionally, the customer can select a cash
recycling transaction by inserting a deposit slip into the
bill validator or another insertion device. In such example,
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
36
the computer subsystem 170 or VMC 800 recognizes that the
deposit slip was entered instead of paper currency. Then, the
vending machine 100 reads the bank routing number and account
number from the deposit slip and prompts the customer to
insert the desired currency. In some embodiments, the vending
machine 100 also provides a keypad on the interactive display
125 to allow the customer to enter how much she intends to
insert (e.g., deposit). The customer inserts the currency
into the vending machine 100. As before, the vending machine
100 counts the amount of currency inserted by the customer
(the payment amount) and communicates with the selected bank
or other payment recipient to credit the inserted amount to
the customer's account. Thereafter, the vending machine 100
uses the inserted currency in future transactions either as
change for vending operations for cash withdrawal requests
made by a customer.
[0095] Further, the customer can select a cash recycling
transaction by inserting (e.g., swiping) a debit card issued
by their bank or other payment recipient. The vending machine
100 provides the customer with a number of icons for possible
transactions since, for example, the customer may be inserting
the debit card prior to purchase of a product or service. The
customer then selects the cash recycling icon to initiate the
cash recycling transaction. In response, the vending machine
100 determines the appropriate bank routing number and account
number corresponding to the debit card. Then, the customer
inserts the currency in the manner described herein above.
[0096] In an additional example, a local business can
deposit funds, such as a daily receipts, into the business
account. A representative of the business selects the cash
recycling icon. In some embodiments, the vending machine 100
prompts the representative to select a financial institution
(or other payment recipient) and account number as described
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
37
herein above. In additional and alternative embodiments, the
representative can insert a deposit slip as described herein
above. In yet additional and alternative embodiments, the
representative merely enters a business identification number
or selects an icon associated with the business. For example,
the business may have established a customer account
(discussed herein below) such that an icon is provided on the
interactive display 125 or the vending machine 100 can
determine a bank routing number and account number by
accessing the customer account. Thereafter, the
representative inserts the deposit into the vending machine
via the bill validator, the coin insert, or both. In some
embodiments, the representative also enters, via a keypad on
the interactive display 125, the amount being deposited (the
payment amount). Then, the vending machine 100 contacts the
financial institution associated with the business (e.g.,
using the routing number and account number entered or in the
customer account) and credits the deposited funds to the
business account.
[0097] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 can
perform a currency exchange service. The vending machine 100
stores one or more different currency types. The vending
machine 100 receives exchange rate data via the internet or
other communication link. When a customer wishes to exchange
one currency type for another, the interactive display 125
prompts the available options for exchange. The customer can
select what currency type she has and what currency type she
desires to receive. The customer also enters, via the
interactive display 125, the amount of currency that she
wishes to exchange. The vending machine 100 determines the
appropriate exchange rate and computes the amount that will be
due to the customer less a conversion fee charged by the
vending machine. The conversion fee can be a fixed rate, a
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
38
staged or stepped rate, a percentage of the transaction
amount, or a combination of these. The interactive display
125 displays the amount that the customer will receive if she
proceeds with the transaction. The interactive display 125
also can include a confirm icon to allow the customer to
accept the transaction and/or a cancel icon to allow the
customer to deny the transaction. In some embodiments, the
customer confirms the transaction by inserting the currency
for exchange. In some embodiments, the vending machine 100
cancels the transaction if no currency is inserted after a
specified period of time. After the customer inserts the
currency, the vending machine 100 outputs the desired currency
type. The desired currency is output by the bill validator, a
coin return tray, or both.
[0098] In each of the cash recycling embodiments, the
operator and the banks transfer funds between each other using
financial transfer mechanisms as is known in the art or
hereinafter discovered. Accordingly, various methods used by
the operator to transfer funds to the financial institution
associated with the credit of a deposit do not limit the scope
of this disclosure.
[0099] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 enables
a customer to pay a bill to a financial institution, or other
payment recipient. For example, the customer can insert their
credit card into the credit card validator. The vending
machine 100 provides the customer with a number of icons for
possible transactions since, for example, the customer may be
inserting the credit card prior to purchase of a product or
service. The customer selects the bill-payment icon to
execute the bill-payment process. The customer enters the
amount that she wishes to pay (a payment amount) via a keypad
on the interactive display 125. The customer can insert
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
39
currency into the vending machine 100 or select that funds be
transferred from the customer account.
[00100] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 enables
a customer to pay a bill to a public utility, bank or other
payment recipient. For example, the customer selects the
bill-payment icon to execute the bill-payment process.
Thereafter, the customer can select a public utility or bank
from a group of icons on the interactive display 125. The
customer can select the public utility to pay for services
such as gas, electric, water, telephone, cable TV or satellite
TV. The customer can select the bank to pay for mortgages,
car loans or other loans. The customer enters the amount that
she wishes to pay (a payment amount) via a keypad on the
interactive display 125. The customer can insert currency
into the vending machine 100 or select that funds be
transferred from the customer account.
[00101] The vending machine is capable of providing multi-
vend promotions. In a multi-vend promotion, the vending
machine 100 offers the customer a discount on a product when
the customer selects an associated product. For example, when
the customer selects a soda beverage, the vending machine 100
offers the customer a discount on a second unit of the same
soda beverage. Additionally, the vending machine 100 can
offer a discount on a different beverage if purchased with the
selected soda beverage. The vending machine 100 provides the
offer for a multi-vend operation by displaying the images
corresponding to the selected product and the associated
product, or products, on the interactive display 125. The
vending machine 100 can provide an animated display to draw
the customer's attention to the multi-vend offer. In some
embodiments, the vending machine 100 offers the multi-vend
prior to the customer's first selection. In such embodiments,
the vending machine 100 can display, prior to a first product
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
selection, associated products eligible for promotion pricing
in the multi-vend. In some embodiments, the vending machine
100 presents, via display 125, a shopping cart to the customer
to purchase one or more products at checkout. Additional
description of methods regarding multi-vend or sales discounts
may be found in US Application Serial Nos. 12/380,952 and
12/380,924 previously identified herein and incorporated
herein by reference.
[00102] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 can
print coupons for later redemption. The vending machine 100
provides an advertisement via the interactive display 125 that
informs the customer that a coupon may be printed by the
vending machine 100. The vending machine 100 can provide this
coupon offer before, during or after a vending transaction.
The coupon can be redeemed by the customer in the vending
machine 100 or in another vending machine (e.g., vending
machine 610 or 615 illustrated in FIGURE 6) in the vending
machine network. Additionally, the coupon can be redeemable
at the business of an associated or nearby merchant. In yet
an additional embodiment, the coupon is redeemable during an
internet transaction.
[00103] In additional and alternative embodiments, the
vending machine 100 transmits the coupon to the consumer and
displayed on the consumer's cell phone, PDA or computer. The
coupon transmitted to the customer's cell phone, PDA or
computer can be scanned, or received, at the vending machine,
or another vending machine, to be redeemed by the consumer.
Therefore, the customer can receive and redeem the coupon
without the need for the coupon to be printed on paper.
[00104] In some embodiments, the coupon is printed by a
printer (not shown) in the vending machine 100. In additional
embodiments, the coupon is credited to the customer's account,
such as, but not limited to, a vending machine network
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
41
account, student account, or business account. In some
embodiments, the customer can select whether to have the
coupon printed by the vending machine 100, receive the coupon
via a cell phone, PDA, or other computer, or applied to a
customer's account.
[00105] When credited to the customer's account, the
customer can, at a later time, print or obtain the coupon from
the account. For example, the customer can access their
account via the internet and print it there from. In an
additional example, the coupon is made available when the
customer uses the vending machine 100 again or when the
customer uses another vending machine within the vending
machine network. In such example, the vending machine 100
used in the subsequent transaction can inform the customer
that the coupon is available to be applied to a purchase. The
vending machine 100 can display an image of the coupon on the
interactive display 125. Then, to apply the coupon to the
purchase, the customer merely touches the image of the coupon
on the interactive display 125.
[00106] When the coupon is redeemable at an associated
merchant, the coupon can be temporal, regional or both. For
example, a merchant located in a shopping area where the
vending machine 100 also is located may desire to provide a
coupon for a particular product that the merchant sells. The
merchant may be trying to eliminate excess inventory, sell
remaining inventory of an obsolete or retired product model,
promote the sale of a new product model, or any other
promotional reason. Therefore, the merchant contracts with
the vending machine operator to provide a coupon in the
vending machine 100. The merchant may provide a copy of the
proposed coupon to the operator. Additionally and
alternatively, the merchant may just provide the information
about the promotion (e.g., price or discount) and the operator
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
42
designs the coupon. The operator sends media information to
the vending machine 100. The media information can include
the graphics for the coupon, the parameters by which the
vending machine 100 is to offer the coupon, the means by which
the vending machine 100 can provide the coupon to the customer
(e.g., printing the coupon or applying to the customer's
account), time periods to display the coupon (e.g., media
metrics), a number of coupons to offer, and duration to offer
the coupon (e.g., how long to offer the coupon such as offer
until Friday the 30th) .
[00107] The coupon may be linked to particular product in
the vending machine 100 such that the purchase of the product
prompts the offer of the coupon to the customer.
Alternatively, the coupon may be offered to every customer
that approaches the vending machine 100. Further, the coupon
may be offered as a prize in a game offered via the
interactive display 125 after or during a vend operation.
[00108] Further, vending machine 100 can inform the customer
where the coupon can be redeemed. The interactive display 125
can display an address or graphic location of the business
where the coupon can be redeemed. The interactive display 125
also can display a list of printable directions to assist the
customer to get to the location of the business.
[00109] In yet additional and alternative embodiments, the
vending machine 100 can offer multiple different coupons. For
example, the vending machine 100 can provide images on the
interactive display 125 associated to a number of different
coupons. These coupons may be .from the same vendor, merchant
or business or from different vendors, merchants or
businesses. The coupons may be offered in any of the manners
described herein above. The customer selects a desired
coupon, or coupons, by touching the image, or images, of the
coupon on the interactive display 125. Thereafter, the
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
43
vending machine 100 issues the coupon to the customer using
any of the methods described herein above. Additionally, the
vending machine 100 can record and store what coupon, or
coupons, was issued. Therefore, the vending machine 100 can
include, in a media metrics message, what coupons, and how
many of each, have been issued.
[00110] The vending machine 100 can access a customer
account via the internet or other communication link. The
customer account may be managed by a customer account manager,
such as, but not limited to the operator of the vending
machine, a business in association with the operator, an
educational institution (e.g., school), government entity
(e.g., a library or parks and recreation department) or
another third party (e.g., such as, but not limited to, a
financial institution, merchant, or department store that
maintains customer accounts).
[00111] The customer may register with a business associated
with the operator. Although the following is illustrated with
respect to the business managing the customer account, the
process applies equally to an operator, educational
institution, a government entity, a third party, or other
account manager managing the account. The customer enters
personal profile information. The personal profile
information includes financial information such as, but not
limited to, one or more bank routing numbers, one or more bank
account numbers, one or more credit card numbers, a cellular
(e.g., mobile) telephone number, and a billing address. The
customer also may be prompted to enter other personal
information, such as demographic information. In response to
the customer completing the personal profile, the business
issues the customer a customer identification number. In some
embodiments, the business issues the customer a service card
(e.g., an ID card). In yet additional and alternative
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
44
embodiments, the business records a voice identifier of the
customer, a fingerprint of the customer, a palm print of the
customer, a retinal print of the customer and the like. In
embodiments where one of a voice identifier of the customer, a
fingerprint of the customer, a palm print of the customer and
the like are used, the vending machine 100 includes
appropriate sensors and/or microphones either on interactive
display 125 or monetary door 120 to read or detect the input
from the customer. In some embodiments, the business can
record a password or a personal identification number (PIN),
or both, to be used with any of the above when accessing the
customer account.
[001121 The customer accounts can be used by the business to
facilitate network promotions offering loyalty at other
connected vending machines in a vending machine network
managed by the operator. The business (or operator,
educational institution, government entity, or third party)
can offer promotions for the continued access of the vending
machines in the vending machine network. For example, the
business can offer a reduced price on one or more products in
one or more of the vending machines 100 in the vending machine
network. The reduced price can be offered for a duration of
time, e.g., for one week after the initial purchase at a first
vending machine 100. The reduced price can be offered after
the customer has made a number of purchases in one or more of
the vending machines 100 during a specified duration of time,
e.g., five purchases in one month. The reduced price can be
offered after the initial purchase at a first vending machine
100 and reduced further after every subsequent purchase. For
example, the customer may pay full price for a product in the
initial transaction. During a second transaction at any of
the vending machines in the vending machine network, the
customer may be given a one percent (1%) discount. During a
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
third transaction at any of the vending machines in the
vending machine network, the customer may be given a two
percent (2%) discount. In some embodiments, the customer can
receive discounts for one or more products in different
vending machines when purchased in combination.
[00113] In some embodiments, the customer can access
products or services from the vending machine 100 by using the
customer's cellular (e.g., mobile) phone. It will be
understood that use of a cellular phone is for example
purposes only and many other portable communication devices
could be used without departing from the scope of this
disclosure. The vending machine 100 can display a telephone
number on the interactive display 125. Additionally, the
vending machine 100 can display different telephone numbers or
extension numbers associated to different products in the
vending machine 100. The customer 100 can dial a sequence
(e.g., call) associated with a desired product. Additionally
and alternatively, the customer can send a text message to the
vending machine 100 using the sequence associated with the
desired product. In response, the vending machine 100 uses
the customer's cellular number received with the text or call
to access the customer's account. The vending machine 100
debits the customer's account for the amount associated with
the selected product and dispenses the desired product as
appropriate.
[00114] In some embodiments, the customer or other user can
interface with, or contact, the vending machine 100 via a
Bluetooth connection. In such embodiments, the customer can
use their cellular telephone to detect the vending machine
100. The customer can transmit vending requests by sending
the sequence associated with the desired product or service to
the vending machine. The customer also sends a customer
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
46
identification number (and password if required) to enable the
vending machine to access the customer account.
[00115] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 offers
a game during or after a vend process. The vending machine
100 provides the game via the interactive display 125. The
vending machine 100 can offer different games at different
times of the day or in response to different products
selected. In response to completing, or winning, the game,
the vending machine 100 offers the customer a prize. The
prize can be a coupon, as described herein above, another
product, or a discount on another product.
[00116] The vending machine 100 is configured to display
advertising, messages, promotions, etc. for merchants located
in proximity to the vending machine 100. A server or
advertising clearinghouse, such as the server 635, may be
configured with various merchant media and transmit the media
to the vending machine 100 via the internet, via a wireline
communication, a wireless communication, a connection to a
handheld device, or a combination of one or more of these. In
some embodiments, the vending machine 100 receives streaming
media information. Additionally, the media information can be
received via the handheld device 620. A technician within
proximity of the vending machine 100 can transfer media
information to the vending machine 100 for later display.
[00117] The media information includes media content
information and media control information. The media content
information includes the images, sounds, video clips, and the
like that is to be displayed by the interactive display 125
and broadcast by the speakers 130. The media control
information includes configuration information directs how and
when the media content information is to be displayed. For
example, the media control information can include information
that directs the vending machine 100 to display specified
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
47
media content in response to certain products selected by the
customer. Additionally, the media control information can
include information that directs the vending machine 100 to
display media content based on the customer profile in the
customer account. In yet an additional example, the media
control information can include information that directs the
vending machine 100 to display specified media content in
response to the customer's method of payment or an overpayment
by the customer. In still yet an additional example, the
media control information can include information that directs
the vending machine 100 to display specified media content a
certain number of times per day, for a certain duration, at a
specified time each day, or any combination of the above. The
media control information can also include information the
directs the vending machine 100 to display media content
within a specified portion of the interactive display 125,
moving within the display, in another animated fashion, and/or
within a banner.
[00118] The media information also can include vending
related information. The media information can be downloaded
and stored. Additionally, the media information can be
streamed real-time. Further, firmware and software upgrades
and maybe preloaded and controlled with downloads or real-time
control. The media information can be multicast globally,
regionally, locally, or to individual vending machines. The
media information can be downloaded from a remote location
635, 740 or 840, service van 625, or handheld 620, 735, 835 or
from other mobile memory means (such as, but not limited to, a
media card, universal serial bus non-volatile memory, and SD-
card).
[00119] The media information can include promotional
advertisements or items associated with the merchants located
in proximity to the vending machine 100. For example, the
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
48
vending machine 100 located near the entrance to a movie
theatre can vend movie tickets. Additionally, the vending
machine 100 can vend coupons for products to be purchased at a
concession stand in the movie theatre. Further, the vending
machine 100 can vend a coupon to discount a product in the
concession stand when a ticket is purchased. Additionally and
alternatively, the vending machine 100 can vend a coupon to
discount the movie ticket when a snack or beverage is vended.
[00120] Additionally, the media information can include
movie trailers. The interactive display 125 can broadcast one
or more movie trailers before, during or after a vend process
has occurred. In such example, the interactive display 125
can be responsive to a touch by the customer to stop the movie
trailer, move to the next movie trailer, restart the movie
trailer, or purchase a ticket to see the movie associated with
the movie trailer.
[00121] In an additional and alternative example, the
vending machine 100 is capable of taking online orders for
products sold by nearby merchants. For example, the vending
machine 100 may be located in a shopping mall. When a
customer visits a particular sporting goods store, the
customer is informed by the sporting goods store sales
attendant that the item that the customer desires to purchase
currently is sold out or is available online only. The sales
attendant can send the customer to the vending machine 100 to
check to see if another sporting goods store location has the
desired item or if the desired item is available for online
purchase. The customer selects an icon on the interactive
display 125 associated with the sporting goods store. In
response, the interactive display 125 can display additional
icons to assist the customer in finding and selecting the
desired item or the interactive display 125 can provide the
customer the ability to enter a number associated with the
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
49
product (such as a brand and model or a Universal Product Code
(UPC)). Thereafter, the vending machine 100 communicates with
a database associated with the sporting goods store. The data
base may be accessible via the internet or the data base
information may have been transferred to the vending machine
at a prior time as part of the media information. The vending
machine 100 displays a location of the nearest sporting good
store location that currently shows to have the desired
option. Additionally, the vending machine 100 can display an
option to purchase the item for pickup at the store or
delivery from the store. If the customer selects an option to
picking up at the store, the vending machine 100 can print a
claim check to allow the customer to claim the item at the
selected store location. If online purchase is available, the
customer can select the item for purchase. In both cases, the
customer can select a customer account for purchase, insert
cash or insert a credit card. Thereafter, the vending machine
100 can offer the customer a discount to purchase a product in
the vending machine 100.
[00122] The vending machine 100 is configured to accept a
student identification (student ID) as a method of payment.
When a student presents the student ID as a method of payment,
the vending machine 100 accesses a student account. The
student account can be stored at a financial institution
(e.g., a student account) or the student account can be stored
at the educational institution. The student account may
include "parental options" that prohibit the purchase of
certain items. The vending machine 100 debits the student
account an amount for purchasing a product selected by the
student from the vending machine 100.
[00123] In additional and alternative embodiments, the
student can obtain other services from the vending machine.
For example, the student can insert (or bring in proximity to
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
a card reader) the student ID in order to make a tuition
payment to the educational institution. Additionally, the
student can insert (or bring in proximity to a card reader)
the student ID in order to make a deposit into the student
account. Further, the student can insert (or bring in
proximity to a card reader) the student ID in order to obtain
the student's grades such as, for example, obtaining the
current grades, after an exam grade is posted, after semester
grades are posted, and after a major paper/project's grades
are posted. In yet an additional example, the student can
insert (or bring in proximity to a card reader) the student ID
in order to pay a fine, such as a parking ticket, that the
student given by the educational institution's officials.
[001241 In some embodiments, the vending machine 100
provides news and weather alerts and announcements. The media
information can include temporal information such as news and
weather related information. The interactive display 125 can
display news and/or weather information at specified times,
periodically, prior to a vending transaction, during a vending
transaction, after a vending transaction, in response to a
customer request, or any combination of the above. The
interactive display 125 also can display news and weather
alerts. For example, the interactive display 125 can display
weather information when weather is getting, or has become,
dangerous. Additionally, the vending machine 100 can be
responsive to Emergency Broadcast System (EBS) alerts to
inform any individuals in proximity about severe or dangerous
weather.
[00125] In some embodiments the vending machine 100 is
configured to display product related information prior to a
vending operation. The interactive display 125 displays a
number of icons, each icon associated with a product in the
vending machine 100. The icons may be simple graphics or
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
51
images designed to resemble the look and size of the actual
product. The customer can select an icon to request more
information about that product. The customer can use the
interactive display 125 to rotate the image of the product to
obtain a 360 view of the product. The interactive display
125 can also display the nutritional data (e.g. a nutrition
facts label). Also, the customer can select an option on the
interactive display 125 to display a list of ingredients in
the product.
[00126] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 is
configured to alert the purchaser that a product selected
contains an ingredient to which the customer may be allergic.
For example, when the customer sets up the customer account,
the customer can include allergies to products in the personal
profile. Thereafter, as the vending machine 100 receives the
nutritional information for products, the vending machine 100
stores the list of ingredients for each product. When a
customer selects a product and presents a customer
identification number (or any other method to direct the
vending machine 100 to access the customer account for
payment), the vending machine 100 accesses the list of
allergies in the personal profile and compares the list with
the list of ingredients of the product selected by the
customer. If there are one or more products on the list of
ingredients that correspond with the product to which the
customer indicated an allergic reaction in the personal
profile, the interactive display 125 generates and displays a
warning to the customer. The warning can include, but is not
limited to, a display of the ingredients in the product to
which the customer has indicated an allergy.
[00127] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100
restricts the products dispensed based on the products to
which an allergic reaction is indicated in the customer
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
52
profile. For example, a student account can include a list of
allergies to products and/or ingredients. Additionally and
alternatively, the student's parents and control the student's
profile, and corresponding list of allergies to respective
products, via a web-site.
[001281 In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 can
provide transactions in multiple languages. The interactive
display 125 can include an option to provide written displays
in more than one language. Additionally and alternatively,
the vending machine 100 can include an option to provide an
audible message via speakers 130 in a different language than
is displayed on the interactive display 125. The interactive
display 125 provides an icon indicating that one or more
alternative languages are available. If the customer desires
another language, the customer selects the icon. The
interactive display 125 displays a list of languages
available. The customer selects a language from the list.
Thereafter, the interactive display 125 displays text in the
selected language, the speakers 130 announce selections in the
selected language, or a combination of the two is performed by
the vending machine 100.
[00129] The vending machine 100 is configured to inform the
customer about the status of the vend process. For example,
in response to the customer selecting an icon associated to
the product or service, the interactive display 125 can
display a graphic, such as, but not limited to, an animated
image, directing the customer towards the next action. The
customer can be directed to an input device such as the bill
validator, coin acceptor, card reader, or other scanner to
receive payment or access the customer account.
[00130] Additionally, the interactive display 125 can
display an amount of money that has been detected by the
vending machine 100 as being inserted. Additionally, the
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
53
speakers 130 can broadcast an audible announcement indicating
an amount of money that has been detected by the vending
machine 100 as being inserted by the customer.
[00131] Thereafter, the customer can be guided by one or
more images on the interactive display 125 to select a product
or service, enter information, or other input as required by
the transaction. In some embodiments, the display can
highlight certain product or service icons when an appropriate
amount of money sufficient to pay for the highlighted product
or service is inserted into the vending machine. Once the
icon is highlighted, the icon also is made receptive to a
touch by the customer to select the product or service
associated with the icon. For example, if the customer enters
$1.00, the interactive display 125 highlights icons associated
with products having a price less than or equal to $1.00.
Therefore, the customer is able to select the highlighted
icons to make a purchase.
[00132] In additional and alternative embodiments, if the
customer attempts to select an icon associated with a product
having a price in excess of the amount entered (e.g., price
above $1.00 in the previous example), the vending machine 100
informs the customer that more money is required for the
purchase. The interactive display 125 displays an additional
amount required to purchase the desired selection.
Additionally, the speakers 130 can broadcast a message
indicating that more money is required or a message stating
how much more money is required.
[00133] The interactive display 125 can also direct the
customer's attention, via graphic images and sounds from the
speakers 130, towards a return tray or trays if the money is
being returned to the customer. For example, if the customer
selects a product having a price less than the amount inserted
by the customer (e.g., product price is 75~ and amount
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
54
inserted is $1.00), the interactive display 125 directs the
customer's attention to the coin return tray prior to, during
and immediately after the change has been deposited into the
coin return tray. The interactive display 125 can generate a
flashing arrow graphic, or an arrow moving from the center of
the interactive display towards the coin return tray, or an
image of the vending machine with a coin return tray location
highlighted. Additionally, if the change due the customer
exceeds $1.00, the vending machine 100 can refund the amount
due in paper currency via the bill validator. In such
example, the interactive display 125 can direct the customer's
attention towards the bill validator prior to, during and
immediately after the paper currency has been output from the
bill validator.
[00134] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 is
configured to display products based on the current inventory.
The vending machine 100 can receive inventory information from
the operator. For example, after stocking/restocking the
vending machine 100, the technician, using the handheld
device, can inform the VMC 150, 800 regarding each product
placed in the product storage area and the respective quantity
for each product in the product storage area. Thereafter, the
VMC 150, 800 debits the inventory quantities according to
vending operations performed. When the VMC 150, 800
determines that a product is out of stock, the VME 150 (via
the computer subsystem 170), 800 can remove the out of stock
product from the interactive display 125. Additionally, the
VMC 150, 800 can inform the operator regarding the out of
stock status of the product via a wireless or wireline
connection to the operator. Additionally, and alternatively,
the vending machine 100 can include an RFID sensor configured
to detect the status and quantity of each product in the
product storage area.
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
[00135] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 is
configured to confirm a product selection prior to the vending
of the product. After a customer has selected one or more
products by touching the respective icons on the interactive
display 125, the vending machine 100 stores a product
identifier corresponding to the product in a memory (e.g.,
memory 254 in the VMC 125, memory 750 in the computer
subsystem 170, memory 850 in the VMC 800, or another memory in
the vending machine 100 not specifically illustrated) . The
interactive display 125 can display a request for the customer
to confirm the selection. The interactive display 125 can
display a `confirm' icon and broadcast an audible message via
speakers 130 informing the customer to confirm the selection.
Additionally and alternatively, the interactive display 125
can highlight or animate the product icon to allow the
customer to confirm the selection. Further, the interactive
display 125 can display the product and suggest a response.
For example, the interactive display 125 can display "you
chose Oreos - is this the product you want?" The interactive
display 125 and speakers 130 can inform the customer that the
selection can be cancelled by making another product selection
or touching a `cancel' icon. After a customer confirms the
product selection, the vending machine 100 cycles a dispensing
mechanism corresponding to the product in order to release the
selected product. As the product is released from a product
storage tray, the product is deposited into a delivery bucket
300. The product within the delivery bucket 300 is accessible
via the access door 310.
[00136] If the customer determines that the correct product
was not selected, the customer may touch the cancel icon.
The cancel icon appears on the interactive display 125 upon
the touching of a product icon. Selection of the cancel icon
removes the selection of the product identifier from a memory
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
56
(discussed in more detail herein above) and from the
interactive display 125. Additionally, selection of the
cancel icon cancels the transaction such that no funds are
charged to a credit card, debited to the customer account, or
processed for billing through the customer's account.
[00137] Additionally, prior to confirming the selection by
depressing the confirm icon, the customer may request that the
vending machine 100 return the customer's money. The customer
may request that the money inserted during the initiation of
the transaction be returned by touching a coin return icon
displayed in the interactive display 125.
[00138] The coin return icon is included within the
interactive display 125 upon the insertion of money into any
one or more of the bill validator, coin acceptor, and credit
card validator. Selection of the coin return icon removes the
entry of the product identifier from a memory, if entered
(discussed in more detail herein above) . Touching the coin
return icon causes the vending machine 100 to return any money
inserted into the coin insert or bill validator, or both. In
some embodiments, touching the coin return icon results in the
vending machine 100 cancelling the initiation of any
transaction resulting from reading a credit card into the card
validator 112 or accessing a customer's account.
[00139] During the vend process, a vend sensing system in
the vending machine 100 may indicate to the VMC 150, 800 that
the selected product was not successfully dispensed. For
example, the product may be stuck in the tray, or the
dispensing mechanism corresponding to the product may be
inoperative. The status of the vend sensing system is
monitored by the VMC 150, 800. If the product is not provided
to the customer, the customer may select an icon on the
interactive display 125 indicating that the selected product
was not dispensed.
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
57
[00140] If the VMC 150, 800 has not detected, via the vend
sensing system, that the vend operation occurred, the vending
machine 100 offers the customer the choice of selecting
another product, cancelling the transaction and/or obtaining a
refund. Additionally the vending machine 100 can be
configured to provide a coupon for use during a subsequent
vending machine purchase at the vending machine 100 or another
vending machine in the vending machine network.
[00141] If the VMC 150, 800 has detected, via the vend
sensing system, that the vend operation occurred, the vending
machine 100 informs the customer via the interactive display
125 and speakers 130 that the product should be in the product
delivery bucket 300. The interactive display 125 and speaker
130 also provide the customer with an address or phone number,
or both, to contact the operator to obtain a refund if the
product was not deposited in the product delivery bucket 300.
[00142] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100
provides the customer with a transaction printout that can be
used by the operator to determine what occurred and to confirm
that the product was not dispensed after the proper amount of
money was inserted. The transaction printout can be a message
printed by the vending machine 100, transmitted to the
customer's account (such as to an email in the customer
profile or an inbox in the customer account), or to the
customer's cell phone, PDA, or other computer. In some
embodiments, the vending machine 100 contacts the operator to
report that the vending operation failed.
[00143] In yet additional and alternative embodiments, the
vending machine 100 is configured to allow the customer to
talk to the operator via the interactive display 125. In some
embodiments, the vending machine 100 can establish a Voice
Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) with the operator. The vending
machine 100 informs the customer, via the interactive display
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
58
125 and speakers 130, that the operator can be contacted if
desired. The customer accepts or denies the contact via one
or more icons on the interactive display 125. If the customer
selects an accept contact icon, the vending machine 100
contacts the operator. The operator accepts the contact from
the vending machine 100. Thereafter, the operator's image can
be displayed on the interactive display 125. Further, the
camera 135 can capture the customer's image for transmission
back to the operator. Thereafter, speakers 130 broadcast
messages from the operator while a microphone (not
illustrated) receives responses from the customer. The
communication can remain until the operator terminates the
connection.
[001441 One or more of the display functions discussed
herein above includes audible alerts or messages broadcast
from speakers 130. Accordingly, the vending machine 100 is
configured to receive and store audible messages for broadcast
via the speakers 130. The audible messages can be stored in
one or more of memory 254 in the VMC 150, memory 750 in the
computer subsystem 170, memory 850 in the MC 800, or another
memory (not specifically illustrated) in the vending machine
100. The computer subsystem 170 (or VMC 800) coordinates
audible messages from the speakers 130 and visual messages on
the interactive display 125 when necessary.
[00145] The vending machine 100 is configured to display
advertisements for multiple products and services. When not
vending a product, the vending machine 100 can broadcast via
interactive display 125 and speakers 130 advertisements
related to a product or service. Additionally, the vending
machine 100 can broadcast public information such as public
service announcements and political advertisements.
[00146] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 can
display advertisements during and after a vending transaction.
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
59
For example, the interactive display 125 can include banner
advertisements. Further, the computer subsystem 170 (or VMC
800) can maintain a portion of the interactive display 125 as
an advertisement area wherein advertisements are broadcasts
continually before, during and after vending transactions.
[00147] In some embodiments, multiple vending machines 100
positioned proximate to each other coordinate the broadcast of
advertisements and promotional information via their
respective interactive displays 125. In such embodiments, the
vending machines 100 coordinate images from the interactive
displays 125 and sounds from the speakers 130 to form a video
wall.
[00148] In some embodiments, the operator can mass update a
number of vending machines 100 in a vending machine network
simultaneously. The operator can perform a mass price change
of one or more products in the vending machines in the vending
machine network. For example, the operator can use a web-
based portal to transmit product pricing to one or more of the
vending machines in the vending machine network. The VMC 150
(or computer subsystem 170, or VMC 800) in each of the vending
machines 100 in the vending machine network can receive price
updates, media updates, and news and weather updates via a
number of communication formats including, but not limited to,
the internet, a wireline communication, a wireless
communication such as Bluetooth , WiFi, WiMax and cellular
such as CDMA, TDMA, 3GPP, or any other communication medium.
[00149] Using the web-based portal, the operator can
transmit (i.e., push) new prices, media information (such as
promotional information), and news and weather information to
one or more vending machines 100 in the vending machine
network 600. The operator can download updated software to
the vending machines 100. The operator may mass update all
the vending machines 100 in the vending machine network 600 or
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
update selected vending machines 100 in the vending machine
network 600.
[00150] In general, in accordance with the present
disclosure, media information and content is communicated
between a remote device (e.g., server, portable device) and
the vending machine 100. Media content and controlling
information downloaded to the device is stored, and the
interactive touch-screen display 125 displays content in
accordance with the downloaded information. In other words, a
remotely located device enables control and programming of a
remote vending machine 100. Content transferred to the
vending machine via a communications link is stored, and
thereafter, is displayed on the touch-screen display 125 in
accordance with the additional information transferred or
resident in the vending machine.
[00151] In some embodiments, the operator can use the
portable device 620 or PDA 645 (e.g., a handheld device) to
transfer new prices, media information (such as promotional
information and advertisements), and news and weather
information to one or more vending machines 100 in the vending
machine network 600. Although the above and below embodiments
describe functions in relation to the operator, embodiments
wherein one of the vending machine manufacturer, product
supplier, and product advertiser controls the media
information could be used without departing from the scope of
this disclosure. The operator can download updated software
to the vending machines 100. The operator and mass update all
the vending machines 100 in communication with the portable
computer 620 or PDA 645 or update selected vending machines
100 in communication with the portable computer 620 or PDA
645.
[00152] The operator (e.g., vending machine manufacturer,
vending machine operator, product supplier, and product
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
61
advertiser) can receive sales data and media metrics from the
vending machine 100 via the web-based portal, device 635,
portable device 620 or PDA 645. The operator also can receive
sales data and other vending-specific information, as well as
media metrics, from a single machine, or from multiple vending
machines or all the vending machines, in the vending machine
network simultaneously. The VMC 150 (or computer subsystem
170, or VMC 800) in each of the vending machines 100 in the
vending machine network 600 monitors, collects and transmits
sales data and other vending-specific information, as well as
media metrics to the operator. The sales data includes
current product inventories, products sold and quantities of
each product sold. Operational status and health information
may also be transmitted. The sales data also can include
times that each product was sold or time periods when most of
the products were sold, or a combination of these. The media
metrics includes times when advertisements were played. The
media metrics also can include the number of times an
advertisement was played (e.g., the number of times a movie
trailer was played), and the number of times a customer
requested an advertisement be replayed, when a advertisement
was played in response to a selection, the number of times and
advertisement was stopped from being played, coupons issued
(e.g., printed or credited to an account), coupons redeemed,
and statistics relating to how the coupons were issued (e.g.,
in response to winning a game, buying a product, printed
versus credited), and the like.
[00153] Accordingly, the operator can deliver audio and
video content to the vending machine 100 by broadcasting the
audio and video content from a central server. The operator
can broadcast the audio and video content when the vending
machine 100 is not in a transactional mode. In some
embodiments, the operator broadcasts the audio and video
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
62
content at specified times. In some embodiments, the operator
broadcasts the audio and video content on an "as needed" basis
(e.g., sporadically). In some embodiments, the operator
broadcasts a portion of the audio and video content
continuously.
[00154] The operator can remotely control the audio and
video content on a machine-by-machine basis. The operator can
broadcast media control information to each vending machine
100 from the central server 635. The media control
information can be broadcast individually to each vending
machine 100 or collectively to one or more, or all, vending
machines 100. The operator can broadcast the media control
information when the vending machine 100 is not in a
transactional mode. In some embodiments, the operator
broadcasts the media control information at specified times.
In some embodiments, the operator broadcasts the media control
information on an "as needed" basis (e.g., sporadically). In
some embodiments, the operator broadcasts the media control
information with the audio and video content. The media
control information includes scheduling information, display
parameters (e.g., full screen, location on the interactive
display 125, location within a banner on the interactive
display 125, placement within a smaller portion of the
interactive display 125 and the like) and sound parameters
(e.g., timing, volume, and the like).
[00155] The operator can dynamically change product pricing
in the vending machine 100 by transmitting a change order from
the central server. The operator can broadcast the change
order when the vending machine 100 is not in a transactional
mode. In some embodiments, the operator broadcasts the change
order at specified times. In some embodiments, the operator
broadcasts the change order on an "as needed" basis (e.g.,
sporadically).
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
63
[00156] The vending machine 100 is configured to display
promotions and interactive advertising. For example, the
interactive display 125 provides a customer the ability to
restart an advertisement, participate in an interactive game,
participate in a sweepstakes contest and receive upsells (such
as, but not limited to, offers for discounts for additional
purchases and offers for discounts when particular products
are purchased together). The vending machine 100 can provide
the customer with immediate prizes in response to
participation in the interactive games and sweepstakes. For
example, the vending machine 100 can award products from the
product storage area, offer discounts on products in the
product storage area, award coupons redeemable in the vending
machine 100 or other vending machines 100 in the vending
machine network, award coupons redeemable at merchant
locations in proximity to the vending machine, award coupons
redeemable via the internet or other associated businesses, or
a combination of these.
[00157] The vending machine 100 can provide customer
interactivity via the customer's cellular telephone. For
example, using their cellular telephone, the customer can make
purchases from the vending machine 100 or participate in an
interactive game with the vending machine 100.
[00158] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 is
configured to deliver samples of products to the customer.
For example, a vendor may be introducing a new product. The
operator places the product in the vending machine 100 and
programs the vending machine 100 (e.g., the VMC 150 or 800) to
dispense the new product with the purchase of another product.
The vending machine 100 then dispenses the new product
whenever a customer selects another product. Therefore, every
customer receives a "sample" product with their purchases. In
some embodiments, the vending machine 100 only dispenses the
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
64
sample product upon the purchase of one or more specified
products. In some embodiments, the vending machine 100
dispenses the sample product when a specified number of
products are purchased together. In some embodiments, the
vending machine 100 dispenses the sample product when it is
determined that the customer has purchased a specified number
of products from one or more vending machines 100 in the
vending machine network.
[00159] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 can
communicate with one or more business using business
intelligence software. The vending machine 100 can connect to
a bank or other financial institution to facilitate a purchase
of a product. The vending machine 100 can connect to a
business to facilitate a purchase of a product from the
business. Additionally, the vending machine 100 can connect
to the financial institution or business to facilitate the
payment of a bill by the customer.
[00160] In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 vends
packaged meals. The meals may be maintained in a heated
environment in the cabinet 105 of the vending machine 100.
Alternatively, the meals may be maintained in a refrigerated
environment in the cabinet 105 of the vending machine 100.
[00161] It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of
certain words and phrases used throughout this patent
document. The term "couple" and its derivatives refer to any
direct or indirect communication between two or more elements,
whether or not those elements are in physical contact with one
another. The terms "transmit," "receive," and "communicate,"
as well as derivatives thereof, encompass both direct and
indirect communication. The terms "include" and "comprise,"
as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without
limitation. The term "or" is inclusive, meaning and/or. The
phrases "associated with" and "associated therewith," as well
CA 02758259 2011-10-07
WO 2010/120815 PCT/US2010/030935
as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included
within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within,
connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with,
cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be
bound to or with, have, have a property of, or the like. The
term "controller" means any device, system, or part thereof
that controls at least one operation. A controller may be
implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or some
combination of at least two of the same. The functionality
associated with any particular controller may be centralized
or distributed, whether locally or remotely.
[00162] While this disclosure has described certain
embodiments and generally associated methods, alterations and
permutations of these embodiments and methods will be apparent
to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the above
description of example embodiments does not define or
constrain this disclosure. Other changes, substitutions, and
alterations are also possible without departing from the
spirit and scope of this disclosure, as defined by the
following claims.
